FAYETTEVILLE (AP) — The University of Arkansas rededicated a nearly 50-year-old dormitory Monday for its new role as a residence hall for freshmen honors students.

Hotz Hall first opened in 1964 as a women’s dormitory. After a two-year renovation, the hall became home this semester to more than 400 students in the Honors College.

“The newly renovated Hotz Honors Hall is a fantastic facility,” Honors College Dean Bob McMath said at the ceremony. “Its proximity to honors wings in nearby dorms gives us a great opportunity to expand programming for all honors students. Top-notch facilities like Hotz, and our new home in Ozark Hall, will help in drawing high-achieving students to the University of Arkansas Honors College.”

The dormitory intersperses common areas among two-person dorm rooms to offer a variety of places for students to interact.

The ground floor has billiards and ping pong tables, a sitting area near a fireplace and space where student musicians can practice. The building also has conference rooms, a computer lounge, study areas and secluded areas where students can watch TV and play video games.

University officials have expanded the Honors College staff to help develop events geared for all honors students.

Hotz Hall was named to honor Henry G. Hotz and his wife, Stella Palmer Hotz. Henry Hotz was a faculty member for 24 years. Stella Hotz was the first woman to become a full professor at UA.